As more Americans start coming around to the idea of the cannabis market and its various derivatives, the industry continues to grow. In fact, the American market size for cannabinoids was valued at $14.6 billion in 2021.
But with so many options on the market and new dispensaries and businesses popping up in the industry, it can be hard to choose the right product for you. Keep reading, as this guide will help you understand the differences between HHC vs Delta 8.
HHC vs Delta 8: The Rundown
So what is HHC? HHC is generally seen as a middle ground between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9. It has the relaxing effect that Delta 8 is known for, while also retaining the euphoric aspects of Delta 9.
HHC, also known as hexahydrocannabinol, has two additional hydrogen atoms, which makes it more stable than Delta 8. HHC is both a semi-synthetic and natural cannabinoid, as it depends on its source and production.
It’s created via hydrogenation, HHC is created as an opposite molecule of cannabinol. Because of this, it has a much longer shelf-life of five or more years compared to Delta 8’s 3-5 years.
Delta 8 is similar to Delta 9, as they have the same number of hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon atoms. However, Delta 8 has a carbon double-bound in a different place than Delta 9, which leads to its different classification.
It’s made through the degradation process of THC, although this results in the least amount of D8. Another process utilizes CBD which is extracted and dissolved into a solvent and afterward washed and neutralized.
Potency & Side Effects of HHC vs Delta 8
For both new and experienced users, it’s important to think about the potency. HHC’s potency is around 70-80% of THC, whereas Delta 8’s potency is around half that of THC. This means that depending on your tolerance level, you may have stronger effects from HHC than you would from Delta 8, and the effects may also last longer.
There are also slight differences in their potency in regards to the method they’re consumed. For edibles, you’ll want to aim for 15-30mg as a standard dose, though keep in mind that these substances affect each individual differently.
Delta 8 and HHC can both be vaped as well, although you’ll need to be mindful of your tolerances and sensitivities around vaping. The size of the bottle it’s packaged in as well as the ingredients used and mg per bottle all vary based on the manufacturer.
If you’re worried about how trying these cannabinoids might affect your system, there’s no evidence that there are severe negative effects. Those using HHC however should be mindful that not much research has been done on its negative effects or impacts.
These substances tend to have overlapping side effects, which include dry mouth, rapid heart rate, increased appetite, and dizziness. But HHC also has psychoactive properties so it’s semi-psychedelic and semi-hallucinatory. Many find it relaxes them rather than being stimulating, but you should be mindful of your limits.
Delta 8 can also produce a distorted sense of time, concentration issues, and memory issues. Although these are common to other forms of cannabinoids as well.
HHC vs Delta 8 Benefits
Delta 8 can relieve stress and anxiety, curb nausea and vomiting, and reduce inflammation, among other medicinal uses. It’s also designed to cause less anxiety and other negative effects while still producing a moderate euphoria-based high. Many users have stated that for those who are uncomfortable with the potency of THC, Delta 8 can be a worthy alternative. HHC on the other hand can help increase focus, induce feelings of euphoria, and also relieves anxiety and paranoia. There have also been anecdotal studies that showed that HHC may also inhibit cancer growth.
It’s also been observed to block pain capabilities in mice. However, there’s not been much more research on whether HHC is viable as a medicinal or therapeutic drug.
HHC vs Delta 8 Availability
As for the accessibility of these products, Delta 8 and HHC are generally legal in the same states. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, officially known as the Agriculture Improvement Act, hemp cultivation and hemp-derived product sales were made legal, with certain restrictions.
Delta 8 is legal in 30 states and regulated on the same level as cannabis in two states. For the remaining 18, the legality of Delta 8 is either unclear or it’s officially illegal.
HHC’s legality is a bit complicated, as because they’re new to the market, there aren’t any laws on the books that mention them directly at this time. While HHC isn’t listed as a banned substance under the Controlled Substances Act, it may be illegal to possess, sell, distribute, produce, or use it if it’s synthetically derived due to the Federal Analog Act.
Some cannabinoid products are still in legal gray areas or non-regulated for use. Because of this, there are currently no set standards for purity or strength.
When you’re considering buying HHC or Delta 8, make sure you’re buying from a company that uses third-party lab testing. This is to guarantee that there aren’t any contaminants or impurities in the products and that they have the proper potency.
HHC vs Delta 8: Choose the Option for You
Knowing the difference between Delta 8 and HHC can help you make the right choices for your body and determine what kind of effects you want to have when using the products. Regardless of whether you choose HHC vs Delta 8, keep in mind to only buy from reputable sellers that independently test their products, like SW Distro.
With a wide variety of cannabinoid products like vape cartridges, vape e-juice, and edibles, we’re a quality supplier of Delta 8, HHC, and THC-0 items. Our products’ lab results are posted right on our website, so you won’t need to wonder if you’re getting the product the label says, you’ll know it.
